Sankashti Chaturthi, or Ganesh Sankatahara Chaturti, is a
monthly fasting dedicated to Hindu God Ganesh. Sankashti Chaturthi July 2015
date is July 5, Sunday and the Chandrodaya or Moon rise time is 10:01 PM.
Ganesha devotees observe Sankashta
Chaturti day from sunrise till the sighting of the moon. The day falls
on the fourth day during the waning phase of moon or Krishna Paksha in a Hindu
lunar month. The day is known as Sankatahara Chaturthi in South India.

The importance and the holiness of Sankashta Chaturthi Vrata was explained by Lord Krishna to Yudhishtira, the eldest of the Pandavas. It is also found in the Narasimha Purana and Bhavishaya Purana.

Observing Ganesh Sankashta Chaturthi is said to bring wealth, peace, happiness and fulfillment of desires.

Fasting is observed by Ganesh devotees on the day. The fast begins at sunrise and ends after evening puja or after sighting of the moon. Lord Ganesha Temples conduct special pujas on the day.